For anyone moving into a home here, including students and EU citizens
When you move into a home in Germany, you have to tell the local registration office, often called the Bürgeramt or Einwohnermeldeamt, soon after you move in. You usually need your passport, a form and a confirmation from your landlord, and you get a registration certificate in return that other offices and employers will ask for.
How it works
Find where to register your new home address after arriving from another country.
Most countries expect you to register your address soon after you move in, often within a few days or weeks. You usually book an appointment at the town hall or citizens’ office and bring your passport or ID card, your rental contract or a confirmation from your landlord, and birth or marriage certificates for family members moving with you. Registering often unlocks other steps, such as getting a local identification number, opening a bank account or seeing a doctor. If you are not an EU citizen, you may also need a residence permit, which is a separate application.
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At a glance
Opening days and booking rules vary by city
Larger cities such as Berlin or Bielefeld often run several citizens’ offices, while smaller towns may have just one. Some work by appointment, others keep walk-in hours, and everywhere you will need your passport and your landlord’s confirmation.
Guides
Related services
For people who cannot cover rent, food or other basic costs. See whether the Sozialamt or the Jobcenter is your starting point and how to reach them.
For freelancers, sole traders and new business owners. See how tax registration works, what the Steuernummer is for and which tax office can help.
For people who already live in Germany and move to a new home. See how to update your registered address and which office takes it.
For students, workers and family members from outside the EU. See which office handles your stay and how applications start.
For anyone who has to show where they live. See what the certificate covers and which office in your city issues it.
For anyone giving up their last home in Germany. See when you need to report your departure and which office accepts it.
Other countries
Moving on, or comparing before you decide? See how this works elsewhere.
Most offices in Elche, Córdoba, and Valencia
Most offices in Rotterdam, The Hague, and 's-Hertogenbosch
Most offices in Warsaw, Rzeszów, and Gdynia
Most offices in Brussels, Aalst, and Antwerp
Most offices in Kópavogur and Reykjavík
Where to next
Pick your German city to see which offices register new arrivals, how to arrange a visit and what to bring along.
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